Glidecam’s X-22 & up n’coming X-45

[Charles King]

This X-22 arm is a prelude to what is to come. The long awaited X-45 arm to be precise. David Stevens of Glidecam and I met once again to discuss the future of Glidecam. Glidecam has always been one of the stabilizing companies I’ve always come to support. During our many short but successive conversations, we talked about what we should be seeing from GC by the end of the year and thereafter. He mention the X-45 and which will eventually replace some of GC’s top model. The arm is being reconstructed with a mechanism to easily replace springs easily, all in one go. The arm is said will have a better feel and handling capability than the X-22. Something we will soon be experiencing.

The X-22 on its own handles pretty good but has a very springy effect. I mentioned this to David and he promise to look into this issue. I’m sure he has also gotten similar statements from other operators. On the whole the X-22 seems to perform well at stabilizing the shot. I just would go easy when it comes to flat out running. The elbows tend to go overboard as they flap up and down way too much. The X-22 has four mounted titanium springs which makes the arm lighter. This is a huge plus from previous arms. The difference is definitely felt.
The X-45 seems to be a promising arm to come so we will just have to wait and see when it comes out by the end of this year or the at the beginning of next year. Glidecam has come a long way and it shows. One thing I like is their commitment to hear what their customers have to say.

My personal experience is from David Stevens. He has always been willing to hear what folks have to say and that I admire the Glidecam he represents.

[Frank Piccolo]

Good Review Charles!

Frank

[Charles King]

Thanks Frank. It was a quick review but I am waiting do a review on their long awaited arm. I got an e-mail from David and things are looking good

[Jon Fairhurst]

Charles,

It looks like the lift on the X-22 arm is adjusted by stretching the spring, rather than by changing the leverage point. Is this the case, or is the standard (Steadicam-type) lift adjustment not shown in the pics.

Thanks!

[Charles King]

It is adjusted the same way as the 3A arm. No vertical adjustment

[Billy Taylor]

oh man i read about the X22...it is rather nicely styled...i saw the x45 sled in pix but did not know about the arm...i bet that thing could fly a BUS...hahaha!! seriously though, Glidecam has some great products... I am very interested in the X10 as a dual arm option for now...still saving...